Phuket Police Arrest Suspected Serial Underwear Thief, Recover More Than 140 Stolen Items

Police in Phuket have arrested a 29-year-old man suspected of carrying out a series of unusual thefts involving men's and women's underwear, along with a range of other personal belongings.

According to Thalang Police, the suspect, identified only as Mr. Jang, was taken into custody following an investigation launched after residents reported repeated thefts in the district.

Detectives from Thalang Police Station, working under the supervision of Phuket Provincial Police, traced the suspect's movements before arresting him at a rented room in Thepkrasattri Subdistrict.

The investigation later continued at Robinson Thalang, where officers recovered a large amount of evidence believed to be connected to the case.

Among the seized items were a white Honda PCX motorcycle allegedly used during the thefts, clothing worn by the suspect, and more than 140 pieces of stolen underwear belonging to both men and women.

Police also recovered jewellery, wallets, identification cards, vehicle keys, collectible coins and other personal property believed to have been stolen from victims.

During questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted stealing underwear over many years, claiming he kept the items for personal gratification. He also told investigators that he had previously attempted to seek treatment but continued committing the offences.

Mr. Jang has been charged with theft and receiving stolen property.

Police are now working to identify the owners of the recovered belongings and are investigating whether the suspect may be linked to additional unsolved theft cases in the Thalang area.